The Los Angeles Lakers are navigating one of the tightest Western Conference races in recent years, and they will have to do so shorthanded in today’s matchup against the New York Knicks.
Superstar LeBron James has officially been ruled out with a left elbow contusion and ongoing left foot arthritis management, leaving a significant void in both production and leadership.
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With every win carrying major playoff implications, head coach JJ Redick faces another key test in adjusting his rotation without his superstar forward. James’ absence affects not only the scoring load but also the team’s playmaking and late-game execution.
The Lakers will need a collective effort to remain competitive against a physical Knicks squad at Crypto.com Arena. On Sunday, Redick decided that Rui Hachimura would step into the starting lineup in James’ place, via the team’s official account on X.
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Hachimura has been highly efficient this season, particularly from beyond the arc, where he is shooting an impressive 44.3% from 3-point range. Through 51 games, he is averaging 11.6 points, 3.3 rebounds and 0.9 assists, providing consistent production in his role.
He has thrived as a mid-range isolation scorer, using his strength, size and wingspan to create space and finish over defenders. His physicality also makes him effective in transition and capable of finishing through contact at the rim.
As the regular season winds down, the Lakers will lean heavily on Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to shoulder much of the scoring responsibility. Surrounding Hachimura with complementary role players will be key, and Luke Kennard, acquired at the trade deadline, adds valuable long-range shooting. Contributions from Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes in rebounding and interior defense will also be crucial to the team’s success.
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Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28)
© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
In the long term, Hachimura’s move into the starting lineup could be meaningful for both his development and the Lakers’ overall direction. As the former No. 9 overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft, he entered the league with high expectations, and an expanded role provides an opportunity to solidify himself as a dependable two-way contributor rather than simply a scoring option.
For Los Angeles, this adjustment underscores the ongoing search for consistency amid injuries and lineup changes. While the team has demonstrated offensive firepower behind its stars, defensive inconsistency remains a concern.
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If Hachimura can better utilize his size, strength, and length on the defensive end. Moving into a particular role as a perimeter and help defender, it would address one of the Lakers’ most pressing weaknesses. Ultimately, their ability to improve defensively will determine how far they can advance as legitimate contenders.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.